Lapis Lazuli Cabochons Three Gemstones
Beautiful lapis lazuli gemstones cut from material mined in Afghanistan.
These gem-grade cabochons are being sold as a set of three.
Each piece has been finely polished and exhibits a vitreous lustre.
The lapis lazuli gemstone on the left has a slightly less intense colour than the other two.
Lapis lazuli has been mined for around 6,500 years. In Afghanistan, it's only found at Sar-i Sang high up in the Hindu Kush mountains.
Due to extreme weather conditions the mine can only be worked for a few months each year.
Most material goes to Pakistan or China before being sold to dealers around the world.